Fear often arises out of the unknown. When you’re confident about what’s going to happen next and what’s around the corner, there’s no need to be scared, but when you’re unsure of what the next days, weeks, months and years might bring, it’s easy to become fearful about the future. For seniors, these fears can be debilitating if they’re not addressed and eased by the people caring for them.
Seniors who are faced with transitions in their living situations can easily become fearful because they are concerned about their worlds being turned upside down overnight. They often envision worst-case scenarios (as so many of us do during times of upheaval), and they tend to feel like no one understands their concerns.
If you are caring for a loved one or family member who is concerned about changes in their living situation — whether it’s the need for a regular in home caregiver or a placement into assisted living — there are some things you can do to make the senior in your life feel better about the changes that are about to happen.
Fear #1 — The Loss of Independence
Independence and freedom are incredibly important to everyone, but not everyone is faced with losing those attributes like seniors are.
Talk to your loved one about his or her fears. Listen without judgment and understand that the fears your hearing about are real. Then, you can provide perspective and reassurance that decisions will be made collaboratively and that any changes will be made with the senior’s best interests in mind.
Fear #2 — People Will Forget
When seniors are around loved ones and family members frequently, they feel a sense of security that can become threatened when the prospect of a different living or care arrangement comes up.
Show your loved one that you won’t forget about them. Make plans now, and offer reassurances that he or she is just as vital to you as you are to them. This fear is very real, so it’s up to you to make sure that your loved one knows you’ll always be there for them, regardless of impending life and living changes.
Fear #3 — The Money Will Go Away
Seniors often need to keep a tight grip on their finances, often due to fixed incomes and bare-bones benefits. When changes appear on the horizon, it’s easy for older individuals to become concerned about how everything will be paid for.
You can assure your loved one that their financial health is important as you consider changes to their living situation. Show that you understand the financial concerns and be sure to talk about the many options that are available today for affordable, in home care.
Let Always Best Care Help!
Are you wondering about options when it comes to improving a senior’s living situation? Are you concerned that you won’t be able to soothe the fears that may arise? Always Best Care is here for you! Call us today at 1 (855) 470-CARE (2273) and find out how you can get set up with a FREE consultation. We’re looking forward to hearing from you!
